In an age where climate goals are necessitating a transition to cleaner forms of mobility, EVs are slowly and steadily becoming the mainstay as an alternative to ICE vehicles. EVs come in various shapes and sizes to fit the users' requirements.
Now, a first-of-its-kind parallel two-wheeled electric car concept has been introduced by someone who created the hoverboard, which we all know as the self-balancing personal transporter that gained immense popularity. Shane Chen has named the prototype SHANE and claims it is the "first two-wheeled car concept to be practical and efficient for everyday urban and highway use," said a statement.
The serial innovator holds over 76 patents for products like Solowheel, Orbitwheels, Powerwing, and Aquaskipper.
Giant hovercraft
The vehicle's design is nothing like that seen on the roads before, resembling an oversized toy or a hovercraft on wheels. The d sign is, however, practical to house five people in relative comfort with the access provided using a large opening door at the front. A similar rear access is provided, possibly allowing users to access the luggage compartment.
What is unique is that SHANE runs on two large wheels compared to the four usually seen on a vehicle of this size. The gadget balances the rider's fore and aft through smart sensors and motors in the framework. Also, SHANE lacks any steering linkages; it shifts direction by increasing or lowering power and speed to one or both wheels.
The information on the size of the electric motor and battery offered by the SHANE has not been revealed, as with the range and top speed it can achieve. It is safe to assume that a vehicle intended to be used in cities and highways should offer a range exceeding 100 miles (160 kilometers) and a top speed north of 70 mph (112 km/h).
Innovative technology
The design of the SHANE features wheels that automatically react relative to the car body to keep the automobile in perfect balance and allow the car to go at high speeds safely, which was previously not feasible.
Chen has put years of experience developing self-balancing platforms to good use with the new car. The vehicle offers stability through its shifting center of gravity, ensuring a safe and level ride, even on just two wheels. Its two-wheel differential speed control makes parking and maneuvering a joy. The big wheels of the vehicle reduce rolling resistance, while regenerative shocks transform dampening into energy to charge the battery.
Additionally, the vehicle prioritizes energy efficiency with its large wheels, reducing rolling resistance and in-wheel regenerative shocks that recover damping energy to recharge the battery.
"Two-wheeled cars have simply not been practical or stable enough for everyday driving, until now. I was excited to create a car concept with two wheels that can go at high speeds and be energy efficient. I truly believe SHANE will make a difference in how we approach mobility and I look forward to collaborating with partners to bring this concept to life," says Chen.
There is no word on a timeline for the SHANE to be available for consumers. Right now, it is inviting partners for licensing opportunities or being a part of making SHANE into a production variant.
Originally published on Interesting Engineering : Original article